Asking your friend or relative to be a bridesmaid is asking them to invest in your relationship as a friend. It’s expensive. And I’ve encountered girls who have participated in three or four weddings in one year!

So, be a good friend and help her financially as well when it comes time to purchase her dress. We all want to look our best, so instead of picking out a specific dress, let them decide on a style within your designated color. There are lots of different styles, and generally we all know what style suits our body shape the best. Your gals can shop within their budget and find the dress in which they will truly shine. Suggest they shop end of the season sales to get some great deals. And many brides are going with the shorter “knee” length dress because not only does it save money, but those dresses can more likely be worn again for other functions.